WHEN TO TRAVEL TO Turkmenistan

Location

Climate

THE Turkmenistan is a Central Asian country that is little known to the general public, but offers many riches to discover.

When is the best time to visit Turkmenistan?

THE climate Turkmenistan is mainly a continental desert, with cold winters and very hot summers. There are four main seasons:

• Spring (March to May): is the best time to visit Turkmenistan. Temperatures are mild and pleasant, and nature wakes up after the winter.
• Summer (June to August): very hot season, with temperatures often in excess of 40°C. It is not advisable to travel to desert regions during this period.
• Autumn (September to November): another good time to visit the country, with milder temperatures than in summer and nature in shimmering colors.
• Winter (December to February): winter is the least favorable season for tourism, with temperatures as low as -20°C in some regions. However, winter sports enthusiasts can head to the country's mountains to enjoy the ski slopes.

Major cultural events in Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan has a rich cultural heritage and many important events are organized throughout the year. Here are just a few of the highlights:

Neutrality Day

Celebrated every year on December 12Neutrality Day is a national holiday commemorating the status of permanent neutrality granted to Turkmenistan by the UN in 1995. Festivities and parades are organized throughout the country, particularly in the capital Ashgabat.

Spring Festival or Navruz

THE March 21 marks the beginning of spring and the new year for Turkic and Iranian peoples, including the Turkmen. In Turkmenistan, Navruz is celebrated in style, with concerts, dance performances and traditional games.

International Akhal-Teké Horse Day

The last Sunday in April is dedicated to the celebration of Turkmenistan's emblematic horse breed, the Akhal-Teké. Horse races and shows are organized throughout the country to showcase this animal, a symbol of national pride.

Independence Day

THE October 27 marks the anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. It is one of the country's most important public holidays, with festivities and military parades celebrating national sovereignty.

Low and high tourist season in Turkmenistan

As mentioned above, the best time to visit Turkmenistan is undoubtedly in the summer. springThis is when temperatures are pleasant and nature is in full bloom. This is also the period when some major cultural events are held, such as the Navruz festival. This is therefore the peak tourist season, with increased visitor numbers and higher accommodation rates. L'fall is another good time to travel, with weather conditions similar to spring and autumn colors that enhance the landscape. However, crowds are generally lower than in spring, which can be an advantage for travellers seeking tranquillity. On the other handsummer and thewinter represent the low tourist season in Turkmenistan. Extreme temperatures make visiting the country less pleasant, and even dangerous in some desert regions. Accommodation rates are generally lower during this period, but it's important to prepare your trip well to avoid the inconveniences associated with climatic conditions.

Recent immigration trends in Turkmenistan

Situated between Iran, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan is a country experiencing a growing influx of people from these neighboring nations. According to official data, the number of foreigners living in Turkmenistan has increased significantly in recent years. Although most immigrants come from neighboring countries, there is also a growing number of nationals from other parts of the world choosing to settle in this Asian country.

Main countries of origin of immigrants

• Russia : Many Russians continue to come to Turkmenistan to work or study, mainly because of the historical and cultural ties that unite the two nations.
• Iran : Trade and economic exchanges between Iran and Turkmenistan have helped attract a growing number of Iranian immigrants in recent years.
• Afghanistan : The political and economic situation in Afghanistan has prompted many Afghans to seek refuge in neighboring countries, including Turkmenistan.

However, it is important to note that these figures can fluctuate depending on immigration policies and diplomatic relations between Turkmenistan and other countries.

Most popular visas in Turkmenistan

As in most countries, a visa is required to enter Turkmenistan. The different types of visa available reflect the various reasons why foreigners wish to visit Turkmenistan. Here are the most frequently requested visas for Turkmenistan:

• Tourist visa : This visa allows foreign visitors to stay in Turkmenistan for tourist purposes for a specified period. Demand for this type of visa has risen considerably in recent years, due to growing interest in tourism in the country.
• Business visa: Intended for businessmen and women traveling to Turkmenistan to work or do business, this type of visa is also in great demand.
• Student visa : Foreign students wishing to study in the country must obtain a student visa. Demand for this visa is constantly increasing, not least because of the quality of Turkmen universities and international exchange opportunities.
• Work visa: This visa is required for people wishing to work in Turkmenistan. Its popularity has increased in recent years due to the country's economic development and the job opportunities available to foreign workers.

International tourism figures for Turkmenistan

The tourism sector in Turkmenistan is growing rapidly, thanks to improved tourist infrastructures and the country's rich cultural and historical heritage. Indeed, the number of foreign tourists visiting Turkmenistan has increased considerably in recent years.

Origins of international tourists

The majority of foreign tourists visiting Turkmenistan come from neighboring countries such as Russia, Iran, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. However, a growing number of visitors from other parts of the world, such as Europe and East Asia, are also attracted by the country's tourist attractions.

Popular tourist attractions

Turkmenistan offers a wide variety of tourist sites and attractions that attract visitors from all over the world. Among the most popular are:

• Ashgabat : Turkmenistan's capital is renowned for its modern buildings and impressive monuments, such as the Ashgabat TV tower and the Neutrality Arch monument.
• Merv : This ancient city in the south-east of the country is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an exceptional testimony to the region's history and culture.
• Karakum: This desert, which covers a large part of the country, offers spectacular scenery and is home to the famous Darvaza gas crater, also known as the "gateway to hell".